US COAST GUARD The Ancients

NARRAGANSETT, R.I. - (From left) The Coast Guard's Enlisted Ancient Albatross, Chief Petty Officer Peter MacDougall, Gold Ancient Mariner, Vice Adm. Robert Papp, Silver Ancient Mariner, Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Kukla, and new Ancient Keeper, Chief Warrant Officer Kevin Galvin gather in the lighthouse at Coast Guard Station Point Judith Friday, June 20, 2008. The four 'Ancients' had the rare opportunity to spend the morning together during the first ever ancient keeper change of watch ceremony where Galvin took over as the new ancient keeper from Master Chief Petty Officer John Downey, who retired immediately after. The enlisted ancient albatross is the enlisted aircrew member on active duty with the earliest graduation date from an aviation technical school. The gold and silver ancient mariners are the officer and enlisted member who personify the dedication and professionalism associated with long service at sea and who have held the distinction of Cutterman longer than any other officer or enlisted member. The ancient keeper is the person who displays longevity and outstanding performance in Coast Guard boat forces. (Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Jorgensen)